New event for Cowes 2014

A NEW sailing event is coming to Cowes this summer. The Etchells Invitational Cup will take place over four days from July 28, hosted jointly by the Royal Thames and the Royal London Yacht Clubs and attracting teams from around the world. Twenty identical boats will be supplied by the Cowes Etchells fleet so no competitor has an equipment advantage, as they try to win the 140-year-old Gertrude Cup. David Franks, Cowes Etchells fleet captain, said: "This event will be a showcase for yacht clubs from around the world to demonstrate the many talented sailors that they have in their ranks, without the need for a huge budget." Clubs from America, New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and Malta have already registered their interest.